8100: Introduction to Engineering Design (1 credit PAR, Gr. 9-12, weighted)

This course is for students interested in engineering and architecture related fields. Units of study include sketching, multi-views, pictorial and 3-D drawing, sections, dimensions, auxiliary and architectural drawing. Students will be expected to use 2-D and 3-D CAD software to solve problems and present designs. Technical reading and math skills are needed. This course is the first course in the PLTW program. PLTW is a nationally recognized engineering curriculum being offered through the Independence School District. For more information regarding PLTW go to www.pltw.org.

8119: Computer Integrated Manufacturing (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

Manufactured items are part of everyday life, yet most students have not been introduced to the high-tech, innovative nature of modern manufacturing. This course illuminates the opportunities related to understanding manufacturing. At the same time, it teaches students about manufacturing processes, product design, robotics, and automation. Students can earn a virtual manufacturing badge recognized by the National Manufacturing Badge System.

8106: Digital Electronics (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design and Algebra II (or concurrent enrollment)

This course is designed so that students gain skills in basic electronics, logical thinking, problem solving, and electronic trouble shooting. Students will seek answers to questions such as how do robots make decisions, how does a calculator work, and what does an electrical engineer do? By gaining a basic understanding of digital electronics in high school, a student gains a head start on an engineering career—no matter what field. Digital Electronics is a course in applied logic that encompasses the application of electronic circuits and devices. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices.

8110: Civil Engineering and Architecture (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design and Drawing I (or concurrent enrollment)

The major focus of this course is completing long-term projects that involve the development of property sites. As students learn about various aspects of civil engineering and architecture, they apply what they learn to the design and development of a property. The course provides teachers and students freedom to develop the property as a simulation or to students to model the experiences that civil engineers and architects face. Students work in teams, exploring hands on activities and projects to learn the characteristics of civil engineering and architecture. In addition, students use 3-D design software to help them design solutions to solve major course projects. Students learn about documenting their project, solving problems, and communicating their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community of civil engineering and architecture.

8116: Aerospace Engineering (1 credit PAR, Gr. 11-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Computer Integrated Manufacturing or Digital Electronics or Civil Engineering and Architecture and Physics (or concurrent enrollment)

This course propels students’ learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software. Students also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles.

8101: Principles of Engineering (1 credit PAR, Gr. 10-12, weighted)

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

Recommended Concurrent Course: Algebra II

This course explores the wide variety of careers in engineering, technology systems, and manufacturing processes. Using activities, projects and problems, students will learn first-hand how engineers and technicians use math, science and technology in an engineering problem-solving process to benefit people. PLTW is a nationally recognized engineering curriculum being offered through the Independence School District. For more information regarding PLTW go to www.pltw.org.

8112: Engineering Design and Development (1 credit PAR, Gr. 12, weighted) 

Prerequisite: Computer Integrated Manufacturing or Digital Electronics or Civil Engineering and Architecture or Aerospace Engineering.

This is an engineering research course in which students will work in teams to research, design, and test and construct a solution to an open ended engineering problem. The product development life cycle and a design process are used to guide and help the team to research a solution to the problem. The team presents and defends their solution to panel of outside reviewers at the conclusion of the course.

8120: Engineering Capstone (1 credit PAR, Gr. 12)

Prerequisite: Must be concurrently enrolled in this course and Engineering Design and Development. Must be able to provide own transportation to internship assignment. Students will be required to attend to their internship site's employee dress code. 

This is an internship to accompany the Engineering Design and Development course. Students will be placed in engineering centered internships as a major part of their development into the engineering pathway.

8621: Internship in STEM Careers - Cerner Scholars (2 credits PAR, Gr. 12) 

Cerner is a leading company in the Kansas City area that provides health information solutions to improve the well-being of individuals and communities. Cerner creates leading-edge health information technology through strategies that empower organizations to know, manage and engage their populations. The Cerner Scholars program at Summit Technology Academy provides students with an opportunity to gain a deeper learning experience related to their interest in computing and technology.